Experts Urge Bio-Enterprise, Innovation at Visayas Science Meet

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Scientists, researchers and experts from across the Visayas convened in Iloilo City from April 29 to 30 for the 2025 Visayas Regional Scientific Meeting (RSM), a two-day event focused on developing science-driven strategies to transform the Philippines’ rich natural ecosystems into sustainable and economically viable bio-enterprises.

Organized by the National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST PHL) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI, this year’s RSM carried the theme “Bioscience Innovations: Transforming Enterprises Ecosystems for Wealth Creations.”

The event centered on harnessing the country’s biodiversity, aquatic agriculture and natural resources through science, technology and innovation to help drive inclusive growth and sustainability.

“We want to gather real-world experiences and strategies already happening in the regions to promote bio-entrepreneurship and build a viable bio-enterprise system in the Philippines,” said NAST PHL President and academician Jaime Montoya during a press conference.

The panel featured experts who have successfully nurtured bio-enterprises in their respective fields.

DOST Region VI Director Engr. Rowen Gelonga said the meeting was a timely opportunity to address the country’s paradox of biodiversity wealth versus economic returns.

“The Philippines is one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, yet agriculture, fishery and natural resources remain the third-lowest contributors to our GDP,” he said.

“With this RSM, we are tapping into the expertise of scientists and researchers to boost the productivity and economic impact of these sectors,” he added.

The RSM was also positioned as a platform for collaboration and a call to action in leveraging bioscience innovations to support environmental sustainability, strengthen enterprise ecosystems and foster regional development.

Similar scientific meetings will also be conducted in Luzon and Mindanao to consolidate findings and recommendations from across the country.